Both are asadora from NHK. The main character both came from Tokyo to the countryside. Both dramas also have the strong appeal of the culture and lifestyle of the countryside. Amachan was set up in Iwate, whereas Mare was set up in Noto. Both drama also offers a story of friendship and life journey. There are so many things that happened in life which does not always works in your favor, but the main characters are working towards their goals.
Personally, I prefer Mare compare to Amachan. I find the main character in Mare is more likable and mature. In addition, Mare story has more closure since it portrays her journey from childhood until adulthood and her character grown was shown very strongly compare to Aki.
However, Amachan also has some stronger strength. I find Amachan story is more realistic and not overdone with too much comedy (If you prefer realistic compared to fun watch, you might like Amachan more. In opposition, Mare has many weirds characters but also likable.), it also brings back memories of the old idol culture and nostalgia.
Personally, I prefer Mare compare to Amachan. I find the main character in Mare is more likable and mature. In addition, Mare story has more closure since it portrays her journey from childhood until adulthood and her character grown was shown very strongly compare to Aki.
However, Amachan also has some stronger strength. I find Amachan story is more realistic and not overdone with too much comedy (If you prefer realistic compared to fun watch, you might like Amachan more. In opposition, Mare has many weirds characters but also likable.), it also brings back memories of the old idol culture and nostalgia.
The story is set during the high economic development time of the Showa period. Natsu lost her parents during the war so she moves to the Tokachi region in Hokkaido with her foster father who is a dairy farmer. While growing up, Natsu meets a boy at primary school who draws a very beautiful picture of a horse so she becomes interested in animated movies. Upon graduating from senior high school, Natsu moves to Tokyo and joins the budding animation industry in order to fulfill her dream of becoming an animator.
Mare is an elementary school student. She lives with her family in the city, but, right before her father goes bankrupt, they run away and settle down at a fishing village in Noto. The family rents a couple's home that run a salt pond. Mare's father starts a new business, but it also fails. Her mother supports the family by working at the salt pond. 8 years later, Mare, about to graduate from high school, decides to work for the Wajima local government. She wants to have a steady job, unlike her father. Her job is to support people who move to Noto
Both series involve traditional Japanese crafts, Kyoto Love Story with dessert and Mare with lacquerware, though it is more of a side story. The ML in Mare is also into dessert but more Western dessert, unlike the one is KLS. Both series tackle the hardships and passion they have for their respected crafts and both series involve the main couples becoming the successors of their traditional shops.
